View From the Legislature

This week the province announced a plan for reopening many of the parts of the economy that have been closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It is a staged plan with several phases. In Manitoba, we have been fortunate compared to many parts of Canada and many parts of the world in that our cases of COVID-19 have remained relatively low. Manitoba has already had less restrictions than many parts of Canada and low numbers have resulted in our ability to move ahead with this reopening plan. The plan also includes a significant increase to testing to ensure we are understanding and monitoring spread of the virus in the province.

Full details of the plan as well as other information is available on the Manitoba Government COVID-19 response website, www.gov.mb.ca/COVID-19. The reopening plan has been led by Manitoba’s Chief Provincial Public Health Officer together with significant consultation. But it is made possible because Manitobans have, over the past several weeks, been working hard to ensure that our COVID-19 cases remain low by practicing such measures such as physical distancing. While there is much more work to do, it is positive that we can see efforts paying off. Thank you to all Manitobans and to our front-line health professionals who have led this effort.

And while there is reason to be optimistic, there is no doubt that the pandemic has taken a significant toll on many parts of our society. Businesses and employees have suffered as a result of this global pandemic. Relief packages have been created by various levels of government. They have taken a variety of forms. This past week, the province of Manitoba has announced several programs including one to assist small businesses that are unable to access federal support. In addition, we are working with the federal government on a business rent assist program in Manitoba.

In addition, it was also announced that Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI) will be issuing rebates to policy holders. The rebates will average between $140-$160 per policy holder. These rebates are expected to be mailed in late May or early June pending approval by the Public Utilities Board. They are made possible as a result of MPI having significantly less accident claims during the past few months. As well, there was an announcement last week regarding support for those who hire students during the summer months. We know that for many students this will be important as they plan for fall and a return to their studies. For more information on these and other programs, visit the Manitoba Government COVID-19 response website as listed above.

One of the most welcomed things this past week was the return of spring. It has been great to see people taking walks and getting active. Even as we deal with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic we have a great deal to be optimistic about as Manitobans. Please continue to take care of yourself and your families.